When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Lakeview Athletic Club
Why Lakeview Athletic Club is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Lakeview Athletic Club, located in Chicago's vibrant Lakeview area, stands out as a comprehensive fitness destination ideal for meeting up with friends and maintaining an active lifestyle. With over 47,000 square feet of space, this well-equipped gym features a wide array of amenities designed to cater to diverse workout preferences. Highlights include top-of-the-line cardio and weight training equipment, a 20-yard indoor lap pool with three lanes, and an inviting outdoor rooftop pool. The facility also includes a massive indoor climbing wall and bouldering cave, an uncommon but exciting feature that promotes both fitness and social interaction. Beyond equipment, Lakeview Athletic Club offers more than 100 weekly group exercise classes such as Zumba, BodyPump, spinning, Les Mills formats, boxing, Pilates, and yoga, allowing members to engage in group fitness in a motivating atmosphere. Personal training services are available with attentive and experienced trainers committed to helping every fitness level achieve their goals. The club’s luxury locker rooms provide full towel service, individual shower stalls, free hair dryers, sauna, steam room, jacuzzi, and wireless internet access, enhancing convenience and comfort. Cleanliness is generally well-maintained, and the welcoming community fosters a friendly environment that encourages socializing while exercising. The club also offers a mobile app for easy class booking, facilitating scheduling for busy lifestyles. Parking is metered street parking near the facility. Overall, Lakeview Athletic Club is a great venue for friends to meet and pursue health and fitness goals together in a modern, spacious environment.
Here's what people think of Lakeview Athletic Club
As of recent, Lakeview Athletic Club holds a 3.4-star rating based on 217 reviews.
User reviews for Lakeview Athletic Club present a mixed to positive picture. Many users highlight the gym's excellent facilities, cleanliness, and variety of offerings as major strengths. Positive reviews frequently mention the friendly and welcoming staff, high-quality group classes taught by skilled instructors, and the cleanliness and maintenance of locker rooms and pools. Members appreciate the outdoor and indoor pools, nice hot tub, and luxury amenities, emphasizing the club’s value as a community-oriented and well-equipped fitness center. Some also note the convenience of the membership, including access to other Chicago Athletic Club locations and easy class booking via a mobile app. However, some negative feedback centers around customer service issues such as billing and membership contract disputes. A number of reviewers express frustration with what they describe as lack of responsiveness or unfair charges when attempting to cancel memberships, indicating potential difficulties in customer relations. Furthermore, a few comments point to maintenance issues like dust or dirt accumulation in certain areas, particularly in the weight rooms. Despite these concerns, most users find Lakeview Athletic Club to be a quality gym overall, appreciating its range of services and social atmosphere. In conclusion, while the club boasts strong amenities and a positive fitness community, prospective members may want to carefully review membership terms and be aware of some reported customer service challenges.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Samuel Russi e Sousa
They will charge you a 1 month fine to cancel even if you are on a monthly plan. In addition, if you cancel through the app or website, they will put your cancellation as pending without mentioning what it means and you will continue to get charged for the gym. Eventually you will realize that you are still being charged and then when you complain they will ask for a written notice of cancellation. Finally, the gym is always packed and you always have to wait to use equipments. They only care about your money and not of your as a customer.
Tyler Laughlin
Air Conditioning Never Works – Years of the Same Excuses I’ve been a member of this gym for several years, and the only reason I’ve stayed is because it’s close to home. Unfortunately, that’s about the only thing it has going for it. Every summer without fail, the air conditioning breaks down—and not just for a day or two. The outages often last for weeks. Last year, the AC was out for over a month, and this year is shaping up to be just as bad. Complaints to the front desk go nowhere; they either pretend to write it down or deny there’s an issue at all. The facility is poorly maintained across the board. Weights are left scattered, towels are abandoned in the locker rooms, and basic cleaning is almost non-existent. I’ve seen the same pieces of trash on the floor for days at a time. There are spills in the carpeted locker room that are never addressed. Equipment is rarely updated, and the large space the gym has is not used effectively. The rock wall has been closed for over three years—I've never seen anyone using it in the eight years I’ve lived here. Despite all of these issues, the gym has never once asked members for feedback or conducted a survey. Every other gym I’ve belonged to did this at least annually. Lastly, the hours are frustratingly limited. There’s clearly a demand for later weekday hours (open until 10 p.m.), and weekend hours are still stuck in the reduced, post-COVID schedule. Members have asked for changes, but there’s no sign they’re being heard. If you’re considering joining, I strongly recommend asking about the AC and maintenance issues first. A gym should be a place where you want to spend time—not one you endure because of convenience.
Karley Segula
Money hungry gym that makes it impossible to cancel your membership without paying for an additional month. Not worth the price for having to wait to use machines and it closes so early. The only good thing about this place is the Monday night yoga class.
Matthew Kowal
This gym has a lot going for it, it's clean, staff is friendly, and generally good equipment. However that is all overshadowed by a basic unwillingness to address longstanding major issues. Today the temperature in the weight room as reported by their own thermostat is 83.9. This is after years of reviews mentioning the air conditioning issues. The gym is still on COVID hours, despite crowding being higher than ever. There's been no word on the climbing wall ever reopening.
Jacob Korb
I don't understand this gym. They charge about $90 a month but it isn't like their equipment is abundant or new. They don't have a ton of staff. They seemingly refuse to turn the AC on anywhere but the front desk, and their hours are infuriatingly limited. I personally haven't gone to the group classes, so it may be most worth it if you do. What I like about this gym and why I've gone the last few months is how close it is to where I live, but the high price with so many cons makes it a gym I'd not recommend
How to reach Lakeview Athletic Club
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Why Lakeview Athletic Club may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Lakeview Athletic Club with your friends? Imagine a place that seamlessly blends top-tier fitness amenities with a welcoming community vibe, making your workout or leisure day both productive and enjoyable. Lakeview Athletic Club (LVAC) offers precisely that, serving as an ideal hub for friends or family groups who want to connect while staying active. At LVAC, it’s not just about getting fit—it’s about sharing experiences, motivating each other, and having fun together. The variety of classes and sports activities caters to all fitness levels, so whether you and your friends are beginners or seasoned athletes, you’ll find something engaging and accessible. This social aspect is paired with amenities designed to enhance comfort and convenience, from luxurious locker rooms to relaxing spa facilities. Rallying here means more than exercise; it’s a shared adventure, a chance to strengthen bonds while pursuing health goals. The club’s inclusive environment encourages interaction, ensuring your gathering feels lively and supportive rather than competitive or intimidating. Whether planning a casual meetup or a group fitness challenge, Lakeview Athletic Club offers the perfect balance of community spirit and workout excellence.
What activities does Lakeview Athletic Club offer for group meetups? LVAC is a fitness haven packed with diverse offerings perfectly suited for groups. For starters, there are weekly group fitness classes in a range of styles like dance, yoga, spinning, Zumba, Les Mills programs, boxing, and Pilates. These classes foster camaraderie as friends can join the same session and motivate one another throughout. The availability of both indoor and outdoor fitness studios maximizes space and comfort regardless of weather. Beyond group classes, the club boasts a 6-lane indoor lap pool and even an outdoor pool, ideal for low-impact workouts, swim lessons, or just leisure swimming with friends. For competitive spirits, the club offers drop-in basketball and pickleball sessions at the nearby Sullivan Community Center, included with membership, which are great for casual or organized sports meetups. Strength training enthusiasts will appreciate fully equipped weight rooms and functional training turf that accommodate individual routines or group circuit training. These varied activities ensure that every member of your group can engage in their preferred fitness style while staying connected.
Why is Lakeview Athletic Club the perfect environment for a group gathering? The club combines excellent amenities with a welcoming atmosphere that prioritizes social engagement. Its modern, spacious facilities include luxury locker rooms with private showers and full towel service, making it easy and comfortable for everyone to freshen up before or after activities. The availability of a co-ed spa area featuring a hot tub, sauna, and steam room adds a relaxing element to your visit, allowing groups to unwind and socialize post-workout. Additionally, the membership includes exclusive access to the Lakeview Fitness app, which members can use to book classes together, track fitness progress, and even chat with other members. This digital integration enhances planning and encourages group accountability. The staff is known for their professionalism and friendliness, providing guidance and support that helps foster a sense of community. Also noteworthy is their babysitting service (available for an extra fee), which makes it easier for parents to participate in fitness activities while ensuring their kids are cared for. These thoughtful touches create an inviting environment for groups, whether catching up over a shared workout or celebrating milestones.
What amenities support convenience and comfort during your group meetup? Lakeview Athletic Club spares no effort in ensuring members enjoy a seamless experience from arrival to departure. The facility offers secure bike parking, appealing to those who prefer eco-friendly transportation. For drivers, metered street parking is available nearby, making access straightforward though members often carpool or use public transit given its Lakeview location. Once inside, members benefit from locker rooms equipped with private showers and restrooms, so no one has to rush home immediately after exercising. Full towel service and fresh towel availability keep things hygienic and hassle-free. The club’s cleanliness receives frequent praise, supported by attentive staff who replenish supplies like ear plugs and plastic bags for storing wet gear. For those wanting to keep connected, complementary Wi-Fi allows use of mobile devices to coordinate plans or keep entertained between sessions. These conveniences make the club an effortless destination for groups, encouraging longer, more relaxed visits that extend the social atmosphere beyond just the workout itself.
How does Lakeview Athletic Club accommodate different fitness levels and preferences within your group? The diversity in offerings ensures everyone in your party feels included and challenged at their own pace. Beginners can join introductory classes or utilize the Kickstart Session, where professional trainers teach proper equipment use and gym etiquette, boosting confidence and preventing injury. More experienced members can explore advanced group classes like Les Mills, boxing, or functional training on turf designed to simulate sports movements. The pool adds low-impact exercise options, perfect for those recovering from injury or seeking gentle but effective workouts. Those who prefer solo training can access cardio machines and weight training areas staffed by experts offering personalized guidance. By providing instructional modifications across classes, LVAC creates an adaptive environment that respects individual capabilities. This level of attention and variety makes it easy for your group to maintain unity while respecting personal fitness journeys and goals.
What makes the community aspect at Lakeview Athletic Club special? One of the club’s biggest strengths is its focus on fostering a supportive, encouraging community. The fitness professionals and instructors are not only skilled trainers but also motivators who tailor classes to embrace all age groups and skill levels, nurturing a welcoming atmosphere. Split into indoor and outdoor studios, group classes encourage social interaction, helping strangers become friends and friends deepen their connections. Special programming such as the Masters Swim Team, triathlon training, and rock climbing add unique ways for groups to bond over shared interests and challenges. The Lakeview Fitness app enhances member engagement by enabling communication, booking, and progress tracking, which helps keep friends accountable and motivated as a team. Members frequently praise the club’s vibe as energetic yet inclusive, where cliques give way to collective encouragement. This focus on community increases the appeal for groups who want a place that mixes fitness with friendship seamlessly.
Why is the Lakeview Athletic Club a great value despite a moderate rating? With a rating of 3.4 based on over 217 reviews, some may hesitate, but digging deeper reveals that members often highlight the club’s substantial offerings at competitive prices. It provides access to multiple top-notch facilities (including the Sullivan Community Center) with no extra cost, generous class variety, and personal training options that rival more expensive gyms. The availability of amenities like spa areas, luxury locker rooms, and multiple pools elevates the experience without inflating membership fees unnecessarily. Many reviews emphasize the exceptional cleanliness and staff dedication, which contribute greatly to member satisfaction. Some lower ratings may stem from typical issues like busy times or parking challenges, which are common in urban fitness centers, but Lakeview Athletic Club’s overall benefits and community focus make it a worthwhile gathering spot for groups interested in balanced fitness and friendship.
In summary, Lakeview Athletic Club combines extensive facilities, diverse classes, and a supportive environment to offer a perfect setting for group meetups. Whether hosting a friendly workout session, celebrating milestones in the spa area, or simply enjoying time together between classes, this club is engineered to foster connection through fitness. The integration of technology, range of sports, and attention to member comfort make it an optimal choice for friends and families looking to rally around health and happiness in Chicago’s vibrant Lakeview neighborhood.